A council has said it’s ear marked £500,000 to improve Spalding and Holbeach town centres.
South Holland District Council says it is looking to use money from its growth and investment reserve for the improvements over the next three years.
It says these would include:
• Refurbishment and modernisation of town centre toilet facilities
• Free Wi-Fi provision along the high streets
• Installation of new street furniture including benches, bollards, planters and bins
• A programme of events including activities shows, specialist markets and celebrations
• Review and reshape the existing markets provision
• Creation of a heritage/arts trail featuring key heritage sites, buildings and rivers.
Creating a Town Centre Steering Group is also among the measures that are to be considered by the authority’s cabinet when it meets next month before going before full council in November.
A spokesman for the district council, which last week announced it was looking to increase car parking charges in the town, said: “The Council’s plan is part of its effort to recognise the importance of the District’s towns as community hubs for its residents, and to offer an all-encompassing destination for retail, leisure and social interactions that people want to live in, work in and visit.”
Also going to the Council’s Cabinet later in the month will be a proposal for how the South Holland Community Reserve will be used. The £500,000 fund, announced as part of the 2019-20 budget, will act as a loan fund for Parish Councils across the district to help support the building, buying or improving of community assets, through both capital works and projects.
Coun Nick Worth, South Holland District Council deputy leader and portfolio holder for growth and commercialisation, said: “This plan lays out a really positive and exciting series of improvements for Spalding and Holbeach, which will play a crucial part in cementing their position as the primary destinations for retail, entertainment, markets and events in the District.
“As a Council we are in the perfect position, through our links with the local community, businesses and other organisations, to take the lead on establishing this plan and showing our continued commitment to improving our town centres.
“Whilst the current plan is just a starting point, it offers a clear direction with significant benefits to both towns, recognising and highlighting their unique identities and bringing new customers, visitors, businesses and investment into them and securing their long-term future.”
